Root Canal Therapy
Removing infected tissue from
within the root
Root Canal Therapy (RCT) is one of the most important procedures in dentistry. It is a procedure that involves removing the infected tissue from within the root canal of a tooth and then filling it with a material that will prevent further infection. RCTs are often recommended when there is an infection in the pulp of a tooth, or when there has been significant damage to the tooth’s structure. This can happen due to:
• Untreated cavities
• A cracked or chipped tooth
• Deep decay
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
• Trauma to the tooth
Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:
• Severe tooth pain that persists
• Pain while chewing or biting
• Pimples on the gums
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swollen or tender gums
• Darkening of the gums or tooth colour
• A severely worn-down tooth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist for an evaluation. They can determine if a root canal is necessary and ensure that the appropriate treatment is provided to preserve the health of your tooth.
Why choose KDC for a Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
At KDC, we offer a comprehensive approach to RCTs that incorporates the latest guidelines and best practices in root canal therapy. We use biologically compatible sealers, disinfect canals with a laser, and employ modern instruments and tools to ensure proper sterilisation. These measures increase the likelihood of a successful and long-lasting treatment.
Additionally, our team is highly qualified and experienced in performing RCTs, and we pride ourselves on providing painless treatments. By choosing KDC for your RCT, you can benefit from:
• Saving a damaged tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted
• Effective and predictable pain relief
• The assurance that you are receiving the best possible treatment with the latest techniques and technology.
What to expect during a RCT
A root canal procedure is a treatment that removes the damaged or infected pulp inside a tooth and seals it to prevent further infection. Here's what happens during the procedure:
1. X-Ray: The dentist takes an X-ray of the tooth to determine the shape of the root canals and check for any infection in the surrounding bone.
2. Anaesthesia: The dentist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort.
3. Rubber Dam: A sheet or rubber called a rubber dam is placed over the tooth to prevent contamination and to keep the area dry and clean.
4. Access Preparation: The dentist will make a small access hole in the top of the tooth to remove the decayed pulp and debris.
5. Cleaning and Shaping: The dentist will clean and shape the root canals to remove any infected material and prepare them for sealing. This process can take several appointments.
6. Filling and Sealing: The root canals are filled with a sterile filling and sealed to prevent further infection.
7. Final Restoration: A filling, overlay, or crown is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and shape.
Most patients report feeling comfortable and pain-free during the procedure, thanks to modern techniques and anaesthetics. Some sensitivity or tenderness may occur in the first few days after the treatment, but this can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medication and should subside within a few days. If you experience severe pain or pressure, or if pain lasts for more than a few days, you should inform your dentist.
• Untreated cavities
• A cracked or chipped tooth
• Deep decay
• Repeated dental procedures on the same tooth
• Trauma to the tooth
Symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal include:
• Severe tooth pain that persists
• Pain while chewing or biting
• Pimples on the gums
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Swollen or tender gums
• Darkening of the gums or tooth colour
• A severely worn-down tooth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist for an evaluation. They can determine if a root canal is necessary and ensure that the appropriate treatment is provided to preserve the health of your tooth.
Why choose KDC for a Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
At KDC, we offer a comprehensive approach to RCTs that incorporates the latest guidelines and best practices in root canal therapy. We use biologically compatible sealers, disinfect canals with a laser, and employ modern instruments and tools to ensure proper sterilisation. These measures increase the likelihood of a successful and long-lasting treatment.
Additionally, our team is highly qualified and experienced in performing RCTs, and we pride ourselves on providing painless treatments. By choosing KDC for your RCT, you can benefit from:
• Saving a damaged tooth that might otherwise need to be extracted
• Effective and predictable pain relief
• The assurance that you are receiving the best possible treatment with the latest techniques and technology.
What to expect during a RCT
A root canal procedure is a treatment that removes the damaged or infected pulp inside a tooth and seals it to prevent further infection. Here's what happens during the procedure:
1. X-Ray: The dentist takes an X-ray of the tooth to determine the shape of the root canals and check for any infection in the surrounding bone.
2. Anaesthesia: The dentist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic to minimise any discomfort.
3. Rubber Dam: A sheet or rubber called a rubber dam is placed over the tooth to prevent contamination and to keep the area dry and clean.
4. Access Preparation: The dentist will make a small access hole in the top of the tooth to remove the decayed pulp and debris.
5. Cleaning and Shaping: The dentist will clean and shape the root canals to remove any infected material and prepare them for sealing. This process can take several appointments.
6. Filling and Sealing: The root canals are filled with a sterile filling and sealed to prevent further infection.
7. Final Restoration: A filling, overlay, or crown is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and shape.
Most patients report feeling comfortable and pain-free during the procedure, thanks to modern techniques and anaesthetics. Some sensitivity or tenderness may occur in the first few days after the treatment, but this can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medication and should subside within a few days. If you experience severe pain or pressure, or if pain lasts for more than a few days, you should inform your dentist.
Contact us today to arrange your
Dental Consultation
We place great emphasis on delivering gentle, pain-free dentistry, and take extra care to ensure our patients are comfortable and relaxed.
- Online Contact Form
- After Hours Emergencies
AFTER HOUR EMERGENCIES: 076 617 4756
Please give us at least 24 hours notice if you are unable to attend your appointment. Please note that a fee may be a charged for late cancellations or missed appointments.
Kromboom Dental Centre charge medical aid rates. We however DO NOT deal directly with Medical Aids. Patients will need to settle their accounts first and claim back from their Medical Aid Provider.
